Monster
A Printz Award Winner
Harper Collins 2009
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.1 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- justice and the legal system
- identity and self-perception
- truth vs. perception
- race and prejudice
- choices and consequences
- morality and guilt
- coming of age
- media and storytelling
About this book
Sixteen-year-old Steve Harmon is in juvenile detention and on trial, and he copes by writing his experience as a movie script—complete with scenes, cuts, and voiceovers. Through courtroom testimony and Steve’s journal entries, readers see how one choice spirals into life-changing consequences. The unique screenplay format pulls in even reluctant readers and sparks big questions about truth, identity, and how others see us. A powerful pick for teens who like courtroom dramas and thought-provoking realism.
Setting: New York City—Harlem and a Manhattan courtroom, contemporary (late 1990s)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Monster right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Monster. The reading level is AR 5.1, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include justice and the legal system, identity and self-perception, truth vs. perception.
How long does it take to read Monster?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Monster takes around 3.2h to finish. The book has 32,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Monster have an AR quiz?
Yes — Monster has an AR quiz available, worth 5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Monster?
Monster has an AR reading level of 5.1, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.